Solitude and seclusion are not at all the thing for a beautiful young woman, I know.

Reading and embroidery are but melancholy pastimes at best and there must be moments when even the gravest, most sedate of maidens grows weary of gazing out upon the stagnant waters of the moat, and longs to look upon the face of a handsome young knight." "Oh! what an unmerciful tease you are, Vallombreuse, and how you do love to torment me with these strange fancies of yours.

You forget that I have had the society of the prince, who is so kind and devoted to me, and who abounds in wise and instructive discourse." "Yes, there is no doubt that our worthy father is a most learned and accomplished gentleman, honoured and admired at home and abroad; but his pursuits and occupations are too grave and weighty for you to share, my dear little sister, and I don't want to see your youth passed altogether in such a solemn way.

As you would not smile upon my friend, the Chevalier de Vidalinc, nor condescend to listen to the suit of the Marquis de l'Estang, I concluded to go in search of somebody that would be more likely to please your fastidious taste, and, my dear, I have found him.

Such a charming, perfect, ideal husband he will make! I am convinced that you will dote upon him." "It is downright cruelty, Vallombreuse, to persecute me as you do, with such unfeeling jests.